How to easily motivate yourself as a farmer

How to easily motivate yourself as a farmer

Staying motivated as a farmer can be hard but it is important for anyone wanting to succeed in this business. So, how do I stay motivated? ... 5:40:00 AM

Staying motivated as a farmer can be hard but it is important for anyone wanting to succeed in this business. So, how do I stay motivated?

Whether you are planning to farm crops or livestock or lease out your farm or make it into a conservancy – it is advisable to first of all come up with a ‘vision statement’ for your farm as well as a ‘plan of action’.

Note that the ‘vision statement’ and ‘action plan’ are not the same as a ‘business plan’. A business plan is usually to get a loan or investment from somewhere.

However, a ‘vision statement’ and ‘action plan’ are written for you the farmer!

In simple and clear terms, write down why you are becoming a farmer and how you hope to achieve that. You will be amazed at how this simple action will fill you with new energy and drive to pursue your farming dreams.

For the action plan, draw four columns:

• Head the first column ‘What?’ and under it describe in clear, concise language the enterprise you’re aiming for – or where you want to take your existing business.
• The second column should be headed ‘By when’. Here you need a date by which the job must be completed. Remember, there is always another job that has to be completed before you tackle your main task! And keep in mind that most tasks take twice as long as planned. Also, don’t forget, these strategic jobs have to be done in addition to your day-to-day business. Estimate the time needed to do the job, add some time, add more, and maybe the deadline will be met.
• ‘By whom’ is the third column. Here you put the name of the person responsible for doing the job.
• Head the fourth column ‘Assisted by’ and write down the names of the people who need to assist the responsible person.

Remember some tasks won’t be completed on time; some will turn out to be unnecessary and some will be completed before the deadline.

You can also add extra tasks - your action plan should be a process, not a once-off event, and will need regular updating.

Follow your vision and action plan and you will be amazed at how much you will be able to achieve with your farm.